These Countries Have the Most World Heritage Sites

Valley of the Temples, Agrigento, Italy. Photo by Dario Crisafulli on Unsplash

UNESCO is an arm of the United Nations whose goal is to promote international cooperation through cultural missions. This important organization is perhaps best known for its World Heritage Site program, which recognizes the value of different spots around the globe for their importance to the cultural, natural, and historical branches of our planet’s heritage.

If you’re looking to see World Heritage Sites in person, these three countries offer the most to see.

Italy (55)

Italy shares the top spot in terms of the number of World Heritage Sites, with 55 spread throughout its territory. Cities with immense cultural and historical value such as Florence, Rome, and Venice are important contributors to Italy’s collection.

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China (55)

China also has 55 World Heritage Sites, an unsurprising figure given the size and historical importance of this Asian giant. The Great Wall of China and Beijing’s Forbidden City are two of the most well-known sites here.

Spain (48)

Spain comes in at third place on the list with 48 World Heritage Sites within its borders. All but one of Spain’s 17 autonomous communities have at least one site, reflecting the cultural diversity and importance of the different nations that represent the country of Spain.